Pompoenenverkoper 1613 - 1667

"Pompoenenverkoper" is an anonymous 17th-century etching depicting a bustling marketplace scene in the Netherlands. The composition showcases a group of figures engaged in the exchange of goods, with a focus on the central group examining melons. The artist employs a dynamic use of line to capture the lively interaction between the figures, highlighting the exchange of goods and the social interactions within the scene. The inscription at the bottom, "Quinam sint sapidi, discernis odore pepones, Qualis odor, talis debet et esse sapor," translates to "You can tell by their smell if they are good, melons. The smell is an indication of their taste." This caption underscores the importance of sensory experience in determining the quality of goods in a market setting. The work provides a glimpse into the daily life of Dutch citizens during this period, capturing the vibrant exchange of goods and the social dynamics of a marketplace.